The number of cancer patients are increasing recently. There is an estimate of 14.1 million cancer cases around the world in 2012. According to various studies, many cancer can be cured if detected early and treated adequately.
A little information about cancer
“Cancer rates are increasing globally. Finding out why cancer is preventable is something the WCRF is uniquely placed to do”, stated by Professor Martin Wiseman, Medical and Scientific Adviser of World Cancer Research Fund International.
We often hear the word cancer, but what really is cancer? Here is a quick and precise definition by www.cancer.gov, Cancer is a term used for diseases in which abnormal cells divide without control and are able to invade other tissues. Cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body through the blood and lymph systems.
Causes of Cancer
Cancer is the world’s second leading cause of death but still there is no known cure for this condition. However, various causes are found that can lead to this deadly condition. Genetics, tobacco, poor diet, lack of physical activity, radiation exposure, and other carcinogens are just some of the said causes of cancer.
Superfoods for Cancers
Although there is no known cure for cancer, lifestyle changes and a balanced diet can provide a dramatic impact in your health. Superfoods are raw foods that have high nutritional value and overflowing antioxidants that could fight the damaging free radicals and other environmental pollutants that can lead to cancer.
Legumes
Legumes have the unique ability to prevent the growth of cancer cells. A study out of Michigan State Unviersity found that black and navy beans significantly reduced the colon cancer in rats. It is said that legumes increase the fatty acid butyrate that has protective effects against cancer growth.
Carotenoids
There are some evidence that carotenoids and bioflavonoids are toxic to tumor cells. Carotenoids gives yellow and orange fruits and vegetables their rich hues. A study that involves big groups of people suggest that those who eat 4 or more daily servings of fruits and vegetables that contains beta-carotene may reduce the risk of developing heart disease or cancer.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, kale, cabbage, and bok choy are all members of the cruciferous vegetables. This family of veggies is a rich source of fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals, and various phytochemicals. The many compounds present in cruciferous vegetables have been linked to lower the risk of cancer.
Garlic
Garlic belongs to the Allium class of bulb-shaped plants, which are relatives to onions, chives, leeks and scallions. Garlic contains compounds such as arginine, oligosaccharides, flavonoids, and selenium which are all beneficial in the prevention of cancer. There are a host of studies that provides convincing evidence that garlic are effective inhibitors of the cancer process.
Berries
Berries are a natural source of antioxidants that combats the damaging free radicals in the body. Raspberries, blueberries, cranberries, strawberries, goji berries, cranberries, and blackberries contains cancer-fighting natural chemicals. In one study with laboratory animals, those who are fed with black raspberries had reduced their tumors in the esophagus by 60 percent and had 80 percent reduction in colon tumors.
Fish
Fish particularly salmon and mackerel are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids and vitamin D. Scientist theorize that vitamin D could aid in blocking the development of blood vessels that feed growing tumors and help stop the proliferation of cancerous and precancerous cells.
Conclusion
Good nutrition is beyond just healthy weight. It is more on making healthy food choices that results in a much improved lifestyle. The superfood family has offered some great benefits of late. In fact various other superfoods are known be effective towards preventing cancer.
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